6101.21 Hearing procedures [Rule 21].

Generally.in camera(a) The Board generally holds hearings in public hearing rooms. Except as necessary under a protective order or procedures, hearings are open to the public. The Board entrusts the conduct of hearings to the discretion of the presiding judge.

Witnesses, evidence, other exhibits.(b) A party that intends to offer testimony, other evidence, or other material for the record at a hearing shall arrange for the witness, evidence, or other material to be present in the hearing room. The Board may in its discretion allow testimony by telephone or video.

Exclusion of witnesses.(c) The Board may exclude witnesses from a hearing, other than one designated representative for each party or a person authorized by statute to be present, so that witnesses are not influenced by the testimony of other witnesses.

Sworn testimony.(d) Hearing witnesses shall testify under oath or affirmation. If a person called as a witness refuses to so swear or affirm, the Board may receive the person's testimony under penalty of making a materially false statement in a Federal proceeding under 18 U.S.C. 1001. Alternatively, the Board may disallow the testimony and may draw inferences from the person's refusal to swear or affirm.